Zola and the Christmas Lights

Highly recommended . . . A beautiful story of friendship, of memories at Christmas, of sharing, of community reflecting the diversity of today’s Australia. The dazzling illustrations reflect all the themes inherent in the text: diversity, family, memory and togetherness alongside the wonderful feelings that Christmas evokes for everyone . . . the everyday things which keep us happy. Zola hugs her dog, the community helps put up the lights, the family cooks for the needy, they all sit down and eat together . . . readers will be enthralled picking out the customs of Christmas, and absorb the images of other peoples and their customs. And at its heart, they all celebrate light, hope and being together.

Fran Knight, ReadPlus

Here are some of the reasons why I adore this book . . . [it's] a stunning picture book . . . based on an Australian Christmas! Australia's multiculturalism is recognised . . . Community is a major theme . . . and most importantly, we learn what all our cultures have in common . . . The illustrations are captivating and magical! Deb Hudson has created mesmerisingly gorgeous artworks on each and every page. I love the colour schemes and details. I could go on, but you must see it for yourself!

get.kids.booked

A beautiful book about diversity, cultures and family . . . a very heart-warming picture book about the magic of Christmas. . . a must have for children . . . this beautifully presented book celebrates the diversity of Christmas and families . . . sure to become a favourite in your household. Five stars.

Impulsegamer.com

A gorgeous, heartwarming journey into the wonders of Christmas . . . Inclusivity, joy and community spirit shine brightly along with a central message of light and hope, which is achingly beautiful.

Kids' Book Review

Melina Marchetta consistently deliver[s] such beautiful and meaningful messages to young readers around diversity, community, empathy, friendship and family, all without once becoming preachy or tedious . . . I had the pleasure of sharing this gorgeous book with at least five different classes from Prep to Year 3 and all not only loved it, but also keenly participated . . . Best of all for the very diverse population of children with whom I shared this, there was not one who could not identify with some aspect of this Australian celebration, from my sweet girl who so excitedly told me ‘we have a lantern just like that for Ramadan and my mum wears [that]’ i.e.a hijab, to the ones who could talk earnestly about some people finding it hard to buy groceries, to the ones who had already put up Xmas decorations. We really did have such fun and such richness from it. [And] the narrative is beautifully illustrated by Deb Hudson, whose work . . . explodes into a perfect riot of colour and detail. Highly recommended for readers from 4 years upwards.

Sue Warren, Just So Stories / Off the Shelf